As we age, many people start to wonder if they are starting to have signs of Dementia or Alzheimer’s. How do you know if it is just a regular part of aging, or something more? A great tool for this is Brain Health as You Age: A Practical Guide to Maintenance and Prevention. I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Ellen Clark, PhD in applied neuropsychology and CEO of Brain Evolved on the topic.
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What to do if a Parent Suffers from Dementia or Alzheimer’s
Many people with parents suffering from Dementia worry they will also have it as they age. This is not necessarily the case. While you are not able to prevent Dementia or Alzheimer’s, there are ways to help the symptoms. Additionally, while genetics do play a role in your disposition to Alzheimer’s, it does NOT mean that you will suffer from it. Environment also plays a part. For more information about Alzheimer’s, click HERE.
How to Delay or Slow Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia
While you are not able to fully prevent Alzheimer’s or Dementia, there are steps you can take to help slow or delay the effects. Therefore, if you are concerned about memory issues or have other concerns, the best thing to do is to speak with a health care provider. The sooner you address these concerns, the sooner you may be able to the issue. Regardless of having Alzheimer’s or not, cognitive intervention is the best way to help ensure you remain cognitively independent for as long as possible. Doing brain training or brain games is a way to help you effectively retain your cognitive function overall.
Below is a list of ways to help with with the different aspects of aging.
- Diet
- Exercise
- Stress Relief
- Proper Sleep
- Socialization
- Cognitive Intervention (Brain Games/Training)